Tribal clashes near Al-Nuhud city in West Kordofan have left at least 21 people dead and 20 others wounded, as tensions between the Bani Fadl and Hamar tribes escalated over the weekend.
Witnesses and local sources reported that the conflict erupted on Friday, when a group of armed individuals stole a vehicle from Al-Nuhud and drove it to the nearby town of Abu Surour. When residents of Abu Surour learned of the theft, they chased down the perpetrators and retrieved the vehicle, sparking further violence. A retaliatory attack was launched by an armed group from the accused party on a village belonging to the Hamar tribe.
In response, the Hamar tribe launched a counterattack on Abu Surour’s market, resulting in the destruction of the market and widespread looting. The clash led to over 40 casualties from both sides, with the injured being transported to Al-Nuhud Teaching Hospital. In an effort to restore stability, authorities have closed the main market in the city as a precautionary measure.
The violence spread to other areas, including Turu, Dabl, and Gunzait, prompting a large-scale displacement of residents from these regions. Local efforts by tribal leaders from both the Hamar and Bani Fadl groups have been made to calm tensions, but ongoing mobilization and armed gatherings suggest the conflict could escalate further.
Eyewitness Bakhit Naeem Abdullah reported that hundreds of women, children, and elderly individuals have fled to Al-Nuhud and other areas in West Kordofan under dire humanitarian conditions. One woman gave birth during the displacement, while the exodus from surrounding villages continues.
The situation remains tense as local and regional leaders struggle to mediate a resolution to prevent further escalation in the area.
